SWIFT/BIC-Code Checker

SWIFT/BIC codes always follow a specific format. This means that we can determine whether your code is valid or not and show you what the individual parts of the code stand for.

Enter a BIC / SWIFT code to find out if it's correct and which bank it belongs to.
Enter a SWIFT code:
Please note that we're unable to confirm the existence of this code or verify if it's the precise SWIFT code for the intended account.
SWIFT Code:

AAAA-BB-CC XXX

White Topic Highlight Swift Code

How is the SWIFT code organized?

A SWIFT/BIC is a unique 8-11 character code that identifies your bank, country, city, and branch.

  1. Bank code: The first four letters stands for the bank name. Most of the time, these are a short version of their full-length name.
  2. Country code: The two following letters stands for the country name, where the bank is located.
  3. Location code: These two characters are a letter and a number. These points out the location of the bank's headquarter.
  4. Branch code: The three last characters details the branch bank. If you see "XXX", this means that you have the SWIFT code of the bank's headquarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common mistakes to look for when checking a SWIFT code?

Ensuring the accuracy of SWIFT codes is crucial for the processing of international transactions. Here are some key errors to avoid:

• Code Length: SWIFT codes should be either 8 or 11 characters long. An 8-character code refers to the bank's main office, while an 11-character code specifies a branch.

• Transposition Errors: Avoid mixing characters, such as confusing 'B' with 'D', which can reroute your transaction incorrectly.

• Misreading Characters: Be careful with similar-looking characters like '0' (zero) and 'O' (letter O), or '1' (one) and 'I' (letter I).

• Using Outdated Codes: Banks may change their SWIFT codes due to various reasons. Always use the current code.

• Incorrect Branch Codes: In 11-character codes, the last three characters identify the branch. Errors here can send funds to the wrong branch.

• Typographical Errors: Simple typing mistakes can lead to invalid codes.

• Code Confusion: Do not confuse SWIFT codes with other banking codes like IBAN or routing numbers.

We recommend to always double-check the SWIFT code’s accuracy before finalizing any transaction.

What happens if you enter the wrong number?

If, by any chance, you send the wrong payment to a SWIFT code that does exist, the receiving bank must flag that they do not manage your recipient's account and reverse the payment.

If you realize that you've used the wrong SWIFT code, you should contact your bank immediately and ask them to cancel the transaction.

In order to avoid these unpleasant situations, at Qonto we have created this SWIFT code checker tool, that will help you in finding/checking the SWIFT codes before making your money transfer.

What happens when you send money to a non-existent SWIFT code?

If you send money using a non-existent SWIFT code, the transaction will likely be rejected by the intermediary or recipient bank.

If it happens, you could face some delays in the execution of the order and the funds could be returned to your account, potentially with additional transaction fees.

We strongly recommend you to always verify the SWIFT code with the recipient or their bank to avoid such issues.

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